Shit happens … and persists: decay dynamics of capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus L.) droppings under natural and artificial conditions

Environmental contamination by veterinary medicinal products and their implications in the conservation of the endangered Pyrenean Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus aquitanicus)

The endangered Pyrenean Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus aquitanicus) inhabits perennial forests of the Pyrenees (Spain, France and Andorre). Feces of domestic animals (e.g., horses and cattle) are often found in this species' habitat as evidence of land use overlapping, especially during spring and summer. As a result, pharmaceutical residues found in feces of these domestic ungulates may be absorbed by plants and insects that are part of the diet of Pyrenean Capercaillies (e.g., blueberries [Vaccinium uliginosum, Vaccinium myrtillus], red wood ants [Formica rufa]). Based on the absence of data regarding the exposure of Pyrenean Capercaillie to residues of veterinary medicinal products (VMP), we selected 71 compounds as indicators of anthropogenically-related environmental contamination, analyzed in 90 samples collected in several subalpine forests, northwestern Spain. Residues of several VMP were detected in feces (capercaillie [ciprofloxacin, enrofloxacin, tetracycline and florfenicol], horse [ciprofloxacin, enrofloxacin, tetracycline and ivermectin], and cattle [ciprofloxacin and enrofloxacin]), and in entomofauna (ciprofloxacin and ivermectin). No VMP residues were detected in blueberry plants. Herein, we present novel data about the presence of VMP residues in the Pyrenean Capercaillie's environment, and identify potential VMP sources (i.e., livestock feces and entomofauna) and an exposure route (i.e., food chain) for Capercaillie chicks. Further studies are necessary to investigate the potential indirect or chronic effects of VMP residues in the species' breeding success and adult fitness, which must be taken into account by managers and policy makers to improve management and conservation actions.

Comparison of commercially available DNA and RNA extraction kits for wildlife feces collected from the environment

Wildlife fecal samples were collected across two Air Force installations to evaluate the effectiveness of commercially available DNA and RNA extraction kits. Four DNA kits, two DNA/RNA kits and one RNA only kit were used. Sample extracts were evaluated on nucleic acid concentration, TapeStation DNA or RNA Integrity Number values and presence of PCR inhibitors. For the DNA kits, PFP produced higher concentrations compared with PLM and RPM, while MWFM gave higher DNA Integrity Number values when compared with RPM. No PCR inhibition was detected. For the RNA kits, RPM gave higher concentrations compared with MWTV and no differences were seen in RNA Integrity Number values. PCR inhibition was observed in all RNA samples, with MWTV exhibiting higher inhibition compared with RPM.

Altitudinal Shift of Tetrao urogallus in an Alpine Natura 2000 Site: Implications for Habitat Restoration

Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus L.), a territorial galliform species, is known to prefer mature conifer stands with canopy gaps and a vigorous understory of ericaceous species. Capercaillie is a useful umbrella species that has recently shown declining population trends and distribution changes in its southern geographic range. We aim to identify and assess the possible changes in summer capercaillie habitat selection between 2001 and 2011 in the Scanuppia Natura 2000 site (south-eastern Alps). The area is dominated by spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karsten) forests, followed by mixed forests, scrub, and open habitats. In both years, summer presence–absence of capercaillie was verified through the detection of droppings over 10 m radius circular plots located along contour lines (1500–1800 m). A set of environmental and habitat features was also surveyed. While overall population numbers remain unchanged over the surveyed period, results have shown an altitudinal shift in capercaillie distribution. Habitat variables had a stronger effect on the presence of capercaillie in 2001 than in 2011. Land cover and climate change are likely among the drivers of the shift in altitudinal distribution. This confirms the relevance of habitat restoration actions and to monitor changes in factors explaining capercaillie habitat selection.